On September 29, 2023, 21-year-old María Fernanda Guerrero was tragically shot and killed in Waco, Texas. The incident occurred around 11:00 p.m. in the 1900 block of Avondale Avenue, where officers responding to the scene found Guerrero deceased from gunshot wounds. A second victim, a male, was also discovered with injuries but survived the attack.
In the ensuing investigation, 26-year-old Gustavo Rojas was identified as the primary suspect.
Rojas was apprehended by Waco Police and charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The McLennan County Grand Jury indicted him on these charges, leading to his prosecution.
In April 2024, Rojas entered a guilty plea for the murder of Guerrero. Consequently, he was sentenced to 45 years in prison for the murder charge and received an additional 20-year sentence for the aggravated assault charge related to the male victim. These sentences are to be served concurrently.
The tragic loss of María Guerrero deeply affected the Waco community. She was remembered fondly by family and friends for her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. Her funeral services were held at Lake Shore Funeral Home, with visitation and a rosary on October 4, followed by a mass at St. Francis on the Brazos and burial at Oakwood Cemetery on October 5.
This case underscores the profound impact of violent crime on individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of thorough investigative work and the pursuit of justice for victims and their families.
